2011 NBA Free Agents: Why Chicago Bulls Should Sign Jason Richardson

The Chicago Bulls desperately need more offensive production from the 2-guard spot and unrestricted free agent Jason Richardson is the perfect man for the job.

Lack of perimeter help for Derrick Rose was ultimately the downfall of Chicago in last year's playoffs. Without a legitimate scoring threat on the wing, LeBron James and Dwyane Wade were able to focus all their energy on frustrating Rose.

The Bulls tried a shooting guard by committee approach last season, but unless they make a major upgrade, they will fall to Miami year after year.

Keith Bogans and Ronnie Brewer are excellent defenders, but their offensive deficiencies severely limit Chicago. They averaged just 10.6 points combined last season.

You can't win a title with such poor production from your shooting guards.

And that's where Richardson comes in.

The 30-year-old doesn't have hops like he used to anymore, but he's still an explosive and efficient scorer. Last season he averaged 15.6 points per game on 44.7 percent shooting.

Richardson is a sniper from three-point range, shooting 39.5 percent from deep last year. His presence on the wing would space the floor, giving Rose more room to penetrate.

J-Rich is a pretty awful defender, but if Tom Thibodeau's defense can hide Kyle Korver, it can definitely prevent Richardson from being exposed.

Richardson would have to take a pay cut to join the Bulls, but he has said that he's willing to do so if he lands on a title contender.

He would be a perfect fit in Chicago. He's an exceptional athlete, a savvy veteran and seems like a genuinely good guy.

And most importantly, he's damn good at putting the ball in the hoop.

Richardson and the Bulls would be wise to make this signing happen.